(AP) — The leader of Libya’s unity government is appealing for European Union funds to help cope with thousands of migrants flooding into his conflict-ravaged country in hope of reaching Europe.
Fayez Sarraj said in Brussels on Thursday that “as the number of migrants rises, the economic and social fabric of southern Libya is placed under very significant strain.”
He said Libya has some 4,000 kilometers (2,500 miles) of southern borderline and “doesn’t have the resources to manage significant flows of people.”
Sarraj said “financial contributions are necessary to bolster that southern border” and that “we seek the European union’s support in that endeavor.”
EU leaders meet in Brussels on Thursday and are expected to agree to step up funding to the country’s coast guard to help prevent migrants leaving Libyan waters.
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